Delhi residents may start heading to Noida or Gurugram in neighboring Uttar Pradesh to buy alcohol, as the new liquor policy in UP offers more variety and options. With alcohol stocks running low in Delhi, the UP government’s updated policy is attracting attention by providing more choices for buyers.
Earlier, small and medium alcohol companies in Delhi had raised concerns about a new sales-based point system introduced by the Delhi government. They argued it would favor bigger stores and hurt smaller or local brands. This led to a delay in implementing the system, especially ahead of the Delhi elections.
Now, with Uttar Pradesh’s new Excise Policy for the year 2025-2026, Delhi residents are considering NCR regions like Noida and Gurugram for their alcohol purchases. The policy includes changes such as an e-lottery system for allocating liquor and cannabis shops, making it easier for consumers in Delhi to access alcohol options outside the city.
In Delhi, alcohol sales are controlled by government-run entities, and there have been ongoing issues with licensing portals, which have caused delays in stock management and orders for businesses. Additionally, the city’s liquor policies have come under scrutiny, especially with the controversial 2021-2022 Delhi liquor policy scam.
The new UP policy also introduces “composite shops” that combine beer and foreign liquor outlets into one unit, offering a wider selection at a single location. The state will use an e-lottery system to allocate liquor and cannabis shops, and applicants can only submit one application, with limits on the number of shops an individual can own. Liquor shops in UP will continue to operate from 10 am to 10 pm, as per existing guidelines.
